Honoring the Best in Action Figure Artistry
Over $5000 In Cash Prizes Across Multiple Categories!
The Creator Crown Awards is the premier showcase for excellence in action figure artistry. From breathtaking photography and inventive customs to original sculpts and immersive dioramas, this competition celebrates the creators shaping the future of collectible figure art.
Held in partnership with Titans Toy Expo in the heart of Nashville, the Creator Crown Award is more than a contest - it's a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and passion.
Who Can Enter?
Anyone with a passion for action figures! Whether you're a seasoned pro or stepping into the spotlight for the first time, this event is open to:
- Customizers - Artists who build, modify, or repaint figures using existing or original parts.
- Sculptors - Creators of original figures, heads, creatures, or accessories-traditional or digital.
- Diorama Builders - Craftspeople who design scenic environments or backdrops for figures.
- Toy Photographers - Storytellers who bring figures to life through compelling photography.
- Studios & Indie Creators - Small brands or individuals with original IPs or prototypes.
- Enthusiastic Collectors - Hobbyists eager to showcase their work and compete for the crown.
Award Categories
- Best Action Figure Photography
- Best Custom Action Figure
- Best Diorama
- Best Original Sculpt
Entry Details
- Entry Fee - Participants can submit their first entry per category for free. Each addtional entry is $10.
- Submissions - Multiple entries can be submited per category, but one entry can not be submitted for multiple categories.
- Closing Date - Contest will end at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25. Participants must be on-site and present a valid ID (for participants 18 and older) to claim prize.
- Entry Deadline - All entries must be submitted on-site by 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25.
- Prizes - Over $5,000 in cash prizes awarded to winning creators.
- Open to All - Professionals and hobbyists welcome!
Contest Rules
Entry Requirements
- Submit a printed photo (minimum size: 8" x 10", maximum: 11" x 17")
- Photo must feature action figures as the main subject
- One entry per contestant; photo must be original work
- Digital editing is allowed, but must be disclosed on the entry form
Display Guidelines
- Must be mounted on foam board or within a sleeve for protection
- Photographer name should not appear on the front of the print
Judging Criteria (1-10 points each)
- Composition: Balance, framing, and focal point
- Lighting: Mood, clarity, and creativity
- Posing: Believability and emotional expression
- Background/Setting: Environment integration
- Creativity: Concept originality and impact
- Technical Execution: Focus, sharpness, and editing
- Overall Impact: Stength of viewer impression
Entry Requirements
- Custom figure must be an original creation (kitbash, repaint, or full sculpt)
- Entry must be physically present at the show
- May include one base or accessory, max footprint: 8" x 8"
Display Guidelines
- Figures must stand on their own or with a custom base
- Digital or factory parts must be altered or reworked
Judging Criteria (1-10 points each)
- Sculpting/Modification: Quality of added or altered parts
- Paint Application: Precision, shading, and weathering
- Engineering/Articulation: Functionality and balance
- Creativity/Originality: Unique character concept
- Integration: Cohesiveness of figure as a whole
- Character Presence: Personality and believability
- Overall Execution: Craftsmanship and polish
Entry Requirements
- Diorama must be physically present at the expo
- Size limit: 12" x 12" base footprint, 18" height
- Must feature at least one action figure integrated into the scene
Display Guidelines
- Entry must be self-standing; no power or electronics required
- Loose elements must be secure; no setup allowed after deadline
Judging Criteria (1–10 points each)
- Composition/Layout: Scene structure and flow
- Scale/Proportion: Size consistency between elements and figures
- Paint & Texture: Surface realism and finishing
- World-Building Detail: Immersive and narrative elements
- Integration with Figures: Cohesion between characters and setting
- Creativity: Unique or inspired environment
- Overall Impact: Emotional and visual effect
Entry Requirements
- Sculpt must be an original design (not derived from licensed IPs)
- Can be physical or resin printed (3D-printed allowed if self-designed)
- Figure must be unpainted OR painted by the sculptor
Display Guidelines
- Display base optional; must not exceed 8" x 8" footprint
- WIP photos or digital render screenshots allowed at judging table
Judging Criteria (1–10 points each)
- Anatomy/Form: Structure, realism, or stylization
- Detail Level: Intricacy and surface treatment
- Design Creativity: Inventiveness of concept or silhouette
- Tool Use/Technique: Carving, digital sculpting, or material handling
- Expression/Intent: Mood, narrative, or dynamism
- Presentation: Mounting, support, cleanliness
- Overall Impression: Artistic quality and originality
Prizes
Prize per Category
- 1st Place: $500
- 2nd Place: $250
- 3rd Place: $100
Special Awards
- Best in Show Award (overall top score): $500
- Rising Creator Award (under 18): $200
- Judges' Choice Award: $200
- 14 Honorable Mention Awards: $50 each
Event Location
Be Part of the Legacy
Join the community. Claim the crown!
#CreatorCrownAwards #TitansToyExpo #ActionFigureArtistry
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